County Partners with Event Center to Get People Indoors During Severe Winter Weather

San Mateo -The San Mateo County Event Center provides people experiencing homelessness with a warm and dry place to stay during severe winter weather in a partnership with the County's Human Services Agency.

Up to 53 of the County's most vulnerable individuals and families are able to find a meal, warm place to sleep, hygiene kits and emergency clothing when the weather is at its worst.

"Our residents make so many good memories at the Event Center. The fact that it will continue to be a trusted refuge and resource in challenging times like during the pandemicis a testament to its importance in San Mateo County," Supervisor Noelia Corzosaid. "This County partnership is what it means to come together as a resilient and compassionate community."

The Event Centerwill open its Cypress Hall for single adults and families when Human Services activates its Inclement Weather Program. This is triggered when forecasts call for a period of extremely low temperatures or when a significant wet-weather system is expected to strike.

"People living without a roof over their head are extremely vulnerable during cold weather. Adding warm beds at the Event Center can literally save lives this winter," said Claire Cunningham, director of the County's Human Services Agency. "The Event Center will now be an option for people with few options."

The Human Services Agency, with funding from the local Measure K half-cent sales tax, contracts with the Event Center to provide emergency shelter services.

Participants must be referred from one of the County's eight Core Services Agencies(nonprofit agencies that work closely with the County) and no walk-ups will be allowed.

"Our collaboration with the San Mateo County Human Services Agency underscores our deep-rooted dedication to supporting our community when it matters most," said Dana Stoehr, CEO of the San Mateo County Event Center. "As an emergency management site, we are fully committed to providing a safe, supportive environment during inclement weather, and we are honored to open our doors in this capacity."

County officials expect most activations will last between one and three days.

Any individual in need of safety-net services - food, emergency housing assistance, emergency utility assistance, shelter and other basic needs - should contact one of the Core Services Agencies. Core Service Agencies provide clients with crisis intervention and referrals based on an evaluation of their needs and qualifications for assistance.

If you or anyone you know needs assistance, contact a Core Services Agencynear you.